aeeble

The residents of Nanfangao rely on fishing for their livelihoods. These hardworking seafarers, who endure the hardships of long-term oceanic labor and battle against surging waves, often revere Mazu to pray for favorable weather conditions and abundant harvests. The Nantian Temple, completed in 1956, serves as the region's spiritual center and a beacon of spiritual solace for the fishermen. On the first floor, five statues of original Meizhou Mazu from before the sea crossing are enshrined. On the second floor, a jade statue of Mazu—crafted by renowned Hualien stone artisans Liu Wan-zhi and Ye Shuang-bao from rare giant green jade—takes its place. Atop the third floor stands the world's largest statue of Mazu made entirely of pure gold (weighing 200 kilograms), enhancing the Nantian Temple's reputation and attracting numerous pilgrims to pay homage. Visiting Nantian Temple is not merely about worshipping and sightseeing; it also offers an opportunity to experience the profound sense of gratitude and reverence the locals hold for Mazu.